How to Make Hot Butter Prawns (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Hot Butter Prawns is a beloved Sri Lankan seafood dish, especially popular along the coastal regions where fresh prawns are abundant. Renowned for its vibrant flavors and irresistible aroma, this recipe combines succulent prawns with aromatic spices, fresh curry leaves, and a touch of chili for a dish that's both comforting and exciting. The golden, lightly crisped prawns are tossed in a buttery, spicy sauce that perfectly balances heat and richness. Sri Lankan Hot Butter Prawns is often enjoyed as a special treat, whether at festive gatherings or family dinners, showcasing the country’s unique culinary style. The dish’s appeal comes from its fusion of fiery spices, fragrant herbs, and creamy textures, all rooted in the coastal tradition of Sri Lanka. For health-conscious food lovers, this recipe offers a lighter approach, using less oil and incorporating wholesome ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Hot Butter Prawns is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic Sri Lankan taste experience, making it a must-try for seafood enthusiasts worldwide.
Ingredients
- 300g Fresh prawns (cleaned, peeled, deveined)
- 2 tbsp Corn flour (for light coating)
- 1 Egg white (for batter)
- 1.5 tbsp Butter (unsalted)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil (for shallow frying)
- 2 cloves Garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Red chili flakes (Sri Lankan dried chili)
- 10 leaves Curry leaves (fresh, local 'karapincha')
- 2 stalks Spring onion (sliced)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tsp Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Clean and prepare the prawns by peeling and deveining
Clean and prepare the prawns by peeling and deveining. Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2 · Mix corn flour
Mix corn flour, egg white, salt, and black pepper to create a light batter. Coat prawns evenly.
Step 3 · Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat
Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Shallow fry the coated prawns until just golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4 · In the same pan
In the same pan, add butter. Sauté chopped garlic, red chili flakes, and curry leaves until fragrant.
Step 5 · Return prawns to the pan and toss well in the buttery
Return prawns to the pan and toss well in the buttery, spicy mixture. Add spring onions and stir for 2 minutes.
Step 6 · Finish with a squeeze of lime juice for freshness
Finish with a squeeze of lime juice for freshness. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7 · Serve immediately on a platter
Serve immediately on a platter, garnished with more fresh curry leaves and spring onions.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy adaptation of Hot Butter Prawns is prepared with minimal oil and incorporates fresh, natural ingredients. Shallow frying instead of deep frying significantly lowers calorie content, while the use of lean prawns boosts protein intake. By including aromatic herbs and spices, the dish offers flavor without excessive fat or sodium, making it a nutritious choice for weight management and overall wellness.
A note on tradition
Hot Butter Prawns is a signature dish in Sri Lanka’s coastal restaurants and homes, especially popular in Colombo and Negombo. It is often served during festive occasions, seafood feasts, and family gatherings. The use of curry leaves and chili reflects the island’s culinary heritage, and prawns are celebrated in local fishing communities. This dish showcases how Sri Lankan cuisine elevates simple seafood with bold flavors and aromatic spices.